T HE CROSS+ROADS F ROM FATHER GEORGE W E VENERATE YOUR CROSS S TEWARDSHIP MINISTRY UPDATE

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1 Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church 60 Traverse Road Newport News VA Volume 14, Issue #6 September 2013 T HE CROSS+ROADS INSIDE THIS ISSUE: September Sundays 2-3 Registry / Announcements 4 Clubs & Community 5 Youth Ministry 6-7 Stewardship Ministry 8-9 Through the Bible A Z PC Minutes Treasurer s Report Calendar 11 Hi-Lites Ecclesiastical New Year September 1 New Members Welcome Sunday September 29 Greek Festival Fall Edition PLEASE VOL- UNTEER October VBS Photos page 6-7 F ROM FATHER GEORGE W E VENERATE YOUR CROSS The Orthodox Church celebrates a great victory during the month of September during the Feast Day of the Holy Cross on September 14th. On this Feast of the Holy cross we are reminded of the Divine Grace which is offered to us as a gift, a gift that flows from our Lord s sacrifice on the Cross. Our Lord s victory over death on the Cross, this ultimate sacrifice brings us the necessary tool for embracing our salvation. The Cross should not be something that we should only remember on the 14th of September. In every Orthodox Church behind the Holy Altar Table we see the crucified Christ. We see the Cross leading the procession of the Great Entrance during the celebration of the Divine Liturgy, but even closer to home we remember the sacrifice of our Lord as we make with great reverence the sign of the Cross. In 1937 Archbishop Athenagoras of the Greek Archdiocese of America founded a seminary in Pomfret, Connecticut thus fulfilling his dream after being elected Archbishop of America in Fifteen students responded to the call of Archbishop Athenagoras and traveled to Pomfret. The light of Pomfret continued to burn as the Holy Cross Seminary would move to its present location in Brookline, Massachusetts. Hellenic College-Holy cross was the place that for most of us helped form young men and women for service to the Church. If the walls could talk, they would speak of the young men and women who came to Brookline, some of us as teenagers and would leave the Holy Hill in order to serve the various needs of the Church. I would venture to say that there are not too many Orthodox Christians who have not been ministered to by non Holy Cross graduates. As a people of God may we continue to pray for our College and Seminary. Let us hope that the gifts of the faithful will continue to come into the Seminary so that the vision of Archbishop Athenagoras can continue to the following generations. S TEWARDSHIP MINISTRY UPDATE by Barry Hendricks As I was preparing my input for The Cross+Roads, and looking over the stewardship statistical summary and listing of names who have submitted their 2013 commitment forms, I couldn t help but wonder why so many of our faithful haven t been moved enough spiritually to complete their Stewardship Commitment Form for this year? I am encouraged that 167 parishioners have completed their Stewardship Commitment Form, but friends, we can and must do better than that. Why are 47% of our pledges $460 or less? Why are there 68 parishioners who have made a contribution towards Stewardship, but for some reason, haven t taken the time to fill out a commitment form? As I look at some of the numbers, I m reminded of a simple passage of scripture, For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 6:21. If we want a glimpse at where our parishioner s hearts are, just look at the numbers. In his book, Not Your Parents Offering Plate: A New Vision for Financial Stewardship, J. Clif Christopher says, Nothing is more reveling of what is happening inside people s hearts than what decisions they are making with their pocketbook It is not foolproof, but it is one of the (Continued on page 9)

2 The Cross+Roads Page 2 S EPTEMBER SUNDAYS Glory Be To God Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church 60 Traverse Road Newport News VA Phone (757) Fax (757) Addresses: priest@ office@ parishcouncil@ youthdirector@ webmaster@ admin@ schgochurch.va.goarch.org yourparishcouncil@hotmail.com Office Hours Monday Through Friday 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Priest Father George Chioros Work Home Mobile frgchioros@aol.com Parish Council John Dermanis, President Bobby Vidakis, Vice Pres. Michael Chalkias, Treasurer Frank Peri, Assoc. Treas. Kent Paumier, Secretary Elias Doulgerakis Bobby Garofalis Roger Headrick Jason Holbrook Butch Kyprianides Zena Mageras Chanter John Siokis, Harry Fotiou Youth Director Christina Thames Office Secretary Tasia Savrides Archdiocese on the web Apolytikion of the Church He beheld the image of Your Cross in the Heavens and, as Paul, he too did not receive the call from men. Your Apostle among Kings placed the care of the Royal City in Your hands. Through the intercessions of the Theotokos, O only Loving Lord, keep it ever in peace. SEPTEMBER 1 EPISTLE READING St. Paul's First Letter to Timothy 2:1-7 GOSPEL READING Luke 4:16-22 SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED 10th Sunday of Matthew Ecclesiastical New Year Icon copyright St. Isaac of Syria Skete P ARISH MINISTRIES & ORGANIZATIONS Philoptochos Athena Savvas, President Religious Education Aleksandra Garofalis, Administrative Director Frances Tsimplekis, Artistic Director Greek School Matina Mimikos, Paula Tofalli, Maria Pentakos Youth Ministry Christina Thames, Director Acolytes Barry Hendricks, Director JOY/HOPE Helen Micha, Director Greek Orthodox Youth Association (GOYA) Sydney Galoozis, President Synaxis of the Recovery of the Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos of Miasenae Jesus (Joshua) of Navi Symeon the Stylite 40 Holy Women Martyrs of Thrace Holy Martyrs Calliste and Siblings: Euodus and Hermogenes Righteous Meletius, The Struggler of the Muioupolis Mountain APOLYTIKION AND KONTAKION HYMNS Resurrectional Apolytikion First Tone Savior, Your tomb was sealed with a stone. Soldiers kept watch over Your sacred body. Yet, You rose on the third day giving life to the world. Wherefore the powers of heaven cried out, "O Giver of Life, glory to Your Resurrection O Christ; glory to Your Kingdom, glory to Your dispensation who alone are the Loving One." - copyright Narthex Press and used by permission. All rights reserved. Apolytikion for Ecclesiastical New Year Creator of the universe, setting times and seasons by Your sole authority, bless the cycle of the year of Your grace, O Lord, guarding our rulers and Your nation in peace, at the intercession of the Theotokos, and save us. - copyright Narthex Press and used by permission. All rights reserved. Ὁ πάσης δημιουργὸς τῆς κτίσεως, ὁ καιροὺς καὶ χρόνους ἐν τῇ ἰδία ἐξουσία θέμενος, εὐλόγησον τὸν στέφανον τοῦ ἐνιαυτοῦ τῆς χρηστότητός σου Κύριε, φυλάττων ἐν εἰρήνῃ τοὺς Βασιλεῖς καὶ τὴν πόλιν σου, πρεσβείαις τῆς Θεοτόκου, καὶ σῶσον ἡμᾶς. WISDOM FROM THE CHURCH FATHERS And while one calls on Jerusalem, saying, "Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Sion, for lo! thy King cometh to thee meek, riding upon an ass, and a young colt;" another proclaims His second coming also, saying on this wise, "The Lord, whom ye seek, will come, and who will abide the day of His coming? Leap ye as calves set free from bonds." And another again, amazed at such things, said, "This is our God; there shall none other be accounted of in comparison of Him." St. John Chrysostom, Homily 19 on Matthew 6, 4th Century SEPTEMBER 8 EPISTLE READING St. Paul's Letter to the Galatians 6:11-18 GOSPEL READING John 3:13-17 Sunday before Holy Cross The Lord said, "No one has ascended into heaven but he who descended from heaven, the Son of man. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of man be lifted Kent Paumier, Advisor Young Adult League (YAL) Anastasia Theodorogiannis, President Golden Hearts Chris Fotiou, President Order of AHEPA Newport News Butch Kypriandes, President Daughters of Penelope Tasia Savrides, President Hellenic Womens Penelope Society Helen Vaughn, President Hellenic Youth Dancers Bobby Garofalis, Director (Continued on page 3)

3 The Cross+Roads Page 3 up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God sent the Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him." SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED The Nativity of Our Most Holy Lady the Theotokos and Ever- Virgin Mary Icon copyright Theologic Systems Sophronios, Bishop of Iberia APOLYTIKION AND KONTAKION HYMNS Resurrectional Apolytikion Second Tone When You descended to death, O Immortal Life, then, the light of Your divinity destroyed Hades. When You raised the dead from the depths of darkness, all the heavenly powers cried out, "Glory to You our Christ, the Giver of Life." - copyright Narthex Press and used by permission. All rights reserved. Apolytikion for The Nativity of Our Most Holy Lady the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary Your birth, O Theotokos, brought joy to the whole world, for from you dawned the sun of righteousness, Christ our God. Freeing us from the curse, He gave us His blessings. Abolishing death, He granted us eternal life. - copyright Narthex Press and used by permission. All rights reserved. Η γέννησίς σου Θεοτόκε, χαράν εμήνυσε πάση τή οικουμένη, εκ σού γάρ ανέτειλεν ο ήλιος τής δικαιοσύνης, Χριστός ο Θεός ημών, καί λύσας τήν κατάραν, έδωκε τήν ευλογίαν, καί καταργήσας τόν θάνατον, εδωρήσατο ημίν ζωήν τήν αιώνιον. WISDOM FROM THE CHURCH FATHERS For since Nicodemus had said, "We know that Thou art a teacher come from God," on this very point He sets him right, all but saying, "Think Me not a teacher in such manner as were the many of the prophets who were of earth, for I have come from heaven (but) now. None of the prophets hath ascended up thither, but I dwell there." St. John Chrysostom, Homily 27 on John 3, 4th Century SEPTEMBER 15 EPISTLE READING St. Paul's Letter to the Galatians 2:16-20 GOSPEL READING Mark 8:34-38; 9:1 SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Sunday after Holy Cross Nikitas the Great Martyr Philotheos the Righteous Bessarion of Larissa Righteous Father Symeon, Archbishop of Thessolonica John the New Martyr of Crete Afterfeast of the Holy Cross APOLYTIKION AND KONTAKION HYMNS Resurrectional Apolytikion Third Tone Let the heavens rejoice and the earth be glad, for the Lord by His Might, has created a Dominion. He has conquered death by death, and become the first-born of the dead. He has delivered us from the depths of Hades, and has granted the world great mercy. - copyright Narthex Press and used by permission. All rights reserved. WISDOM FROM THE CHURCH FATHERS And see how He also makes His discourse unexceptionable: not saying at all, "whether you will, or no, you must suffer this," but how? "If any man will come after me." St. John Chrysostom, Homily 55 on Matthew 16, 1. B#54, p.339, 4th Century SEPTEMBER 22 EPISTLE READING St. Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians 16:13-24 GOSPEL READING Luke 5:1-11 SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED 1st Sunday of Luke Phocas the Martyr, Bishop of Sinope Phocas the Cyprian Isaac & Martinos the Martyrs 26 Monk-martyrs of Zographou Monastery martyred by the Latins APOLYTIKION AND KONTAKION HYMNS Resurrectional Apolytikion Fourth Tone The women disciples of the Lord heard from the angel, the joyful news of the Resurrection and the repeal of the sentence imposed upon our forefathers. With pride they said to the Apostles, "Death is vanquished, Christ our God is risen bestowing upon the world His great mercy." - copyright Narthex Press and used by permission. All rights reserved. WISDOM FROM THE CHURCH FATHERS For now they were well instructed beforehand...but mark both their faith and their obedience. For though they were in the midst of their work when they heard His command, they delayed not, they procrastinated not, they said not, "let us return home, and converse with our kinsfolk," but "they forsook all and followed." St. John Chrysostom, Homily 14 on Matthew 4, 4th Century SEPTEMBER 29 EPISTLE READING St. Paul's Second Letter to the Corinthians 1:21-24; 2:1-4 GOSPEL READING Luke 6:31-36 SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED 2nd Sunday of Luke Cyriacus the Hermit of Palestine Martyr Petronius Theophanes the Merciful of Gaza Dionysios I, Patriarch of Constantinople WISDOM FROM THE CHURCH FATHERS The sign that thou lovest God, is this, that thou lovest thy fellow; and if thou hatest thy fellow, thy hatred is towards God. For it is blasphemy if thou prayest before God while thou art wroth. For thy heart also convicts thee, that in vain thou multipliest words: thy conscience rightly judges that in thy prayers thou profitest nought.. St. Ephraim the Syrian. ACOLYTES September 15 Team A - Dominic Peri, Kostas Polyzos, Jorgie Polyzos, Dean Peri, Joseph Dennie, Yianni Tsimplekis, James St. Martin, Cris Campbell September 1 & 22 Team B - Brandon Pingley, Christian Detweiler, Hayden Hendricks, Michael Christou, Anthony Capobianco, Matthew Swanenburg, Johnny Gray September 8 & 29 Team C - Collin Patrinely. Christos Konstantinou, Ian Sadler, Georgios Haramis, Ethan Detweiler, Christopher Myers, Soterios Tofalli REFRESHMENTS We thank all those parishioners who served as hosts for the months of June, July and August. The hosts for September are: Sept. 1: M/M Olen Bruce, M/M Andrew Call, M/ M Pete Kilopoulos. Sept. 8: M/M Kenzie Cambar, M/M Charles Campbell, M/M John Campbell. Sept. 15: M/M Chris Canavos, M/M Dean Canavos, M/M Sam Canavos. Sept 22: Dr./ Mrs. George Canavos, M/M Cono Capobianco, M/M Peter Carter, M/M Michael Chalkias, Mrs. Eleni Chalkias. Sept. 29: Rev./Mrs. George Chioros, M/M Chris Christopher, M/M Chris Christou, Mrs. Irene Christou, Mr. John Christou

4 The Cross+Roads Page 4 C HURCH REGISTRY / ANNOUNCEMENTS BIRTHS: Our sincere congratulations to Michael & Melissa Chalkias on the birth of their daughter, June 5. Paternal grandmother Eleni Chalkias. Our sincere congratulations to Meni & Nikolaos Rantzos on the birth of their daughter, June 12. Maternal grandparents Socratis & Ifegenia Ikonomou. Our sincere congratulations to Demetria & Lyle Charbomneu on the birth of their daughter, June 18. Maternal grandparents Elias & Zoe Doulgerakis. A baby boy was born to Doctors Cassie and Phi Lam on August 10, Maternal grandmother is Dr. Venisse Georgalas. Na sas zisoun!!!!!!!! 40-DAY BLESSING: The infant son of Ramez & Mishleen Awirch received his 40-day blessing in our Church, Sunday, June l6. The infant daughter of Michael & Melissa Chalkias received her 40-day blessing in our Church, Sunday, July 14. The infant Daughter of Lyle & Demetria Charbonneau received her 40-day blessing in our Church, Sunday, July 28. May the blessings of our Church be with the newly-churched children, their parents, grandparents, and their entire family. WEDDING: Our best wishes and sincere congratulations to Emma Everson & Nikolaos Matheos whose marriage was solemnized in our church on August 17. George Koliopoulos & Eleni Fotiadis served as the koumbari. Na zisete!!!! RECENTLY ILL AND NEEDING OUR PRAYERS: T HANK YOU FROM RENEE ROOT It is hard to believe I have been away from the loving arms of Saints Constantine and Helen Church in Newport News since May 19th. The time has flown by with the packing, unpacking, readjusting, job searching, and all that goes with a dramatic life change. But in spite of all that, not a day goes by that I do not think of this community, especially my beloved, devoted, fabulous choir. Exposure to new churches and choirs has helped me to fully appreciate how truly blessed I was to work with such talented singers and organists and to have a wonderfully supportive priest and gracious chanters! I feel a deep and indescribable gratitude for the going away gifts you gave me: the exquisitely stunning, religious gold pendant, the bouquet of flowers that were as tall as I am, and the commemorative brick for the grounds of our beautiful We wish a speedy recovery to our friend and fellow parishioner, Stavroula Gailey who has been ill recently.perastika sou, Stavroula!!!!!! We continue to pray for the health of the following parishioners: Helen Aaron, Angie Kilopoulos, Maria Pappas, Gus Zaharopoulos and Maria Galanos. Perastika sas. DEATHS: Our sincere condolences to the family of Yanni Venieris who died on June 8. Our sincere condolences to the family of Helen George whose brother, George Nikolaou, died in New Brunswick, CT on June 18. Our sincere condolences to the family of Helen Blentson Papagiannopoulos who died July 4 and whose funeral was held in our Church, July 8.May their memory be eternal.!!!!!!!!! THANK YOU: Tom & Ourania Georges would like to thank Father George and all of their friends and fellow parishioners for their cards, phone calls, prayers and visits during her illness. AVAILABLE FOR RENT If you want to cover the walls of the Sacalis Hall, for that special look for your next affair/reception (wedding, baptism, etc), you can now rent custommade drapes from the Philoptochos Society. Please contact Christine or Stavroula NEW ADDRESS: For those of you that would like to stay in touch with our former Choir Director, please update your Directory with her new information: Dr. Scott and Renee Root Burt Street Omaha, NE Biblical Garden, inscribed with my name and dates of service to the Church, an honor that still brings tears to my eyes when I think about it. I am so humbled by all these gifts that a mere thank you hardly seems adequate, but I hope it will suffice. What I may have contributed to the music at Saints Constantine and Helen does not begin to compare to all this community has given back to me. Your love and support, your friendship and trust, your concern and your encouragement have forever blessed and enriched my life. Thank you for 10 wonderful years! I pray the Lord will continue to bless Saints Constantine and Helen Church and guide a wonderful new choir director to your doorstep. With Love in Christ, Renee Root ATTENDANCE June 2 82 June June June June July July July July August August August August YTD 13 Ave 177 YTD 12 Ave 175 If you would like to purchase Koliva for memorials, you may contact: Helen George Anastasia Savrides Athena Savvas Cross+Roads The approximate cost each month for the Cross+Roads is $375 for printing and $45 for mailing. Should you wish to help sponsor the publishing of the Cross+Roads, please contact the Church office. CHURCH LIST Subscribe to the church list for monthly links to the Cross+Roads and important church announcements at: DEADLINE Please information no later than the 20th day of the month to Nick Vlattas nvlattas@hewv.com

5 The Cross+Roads Page 5 C LUB AND COMMUNITY NEWS PHILOPTOCHOS: President, Athena Savvas, and her new board welcome back all members of the Philoptochos and look forward to having back everyone with renewed energy and enthusiasm working together to enable Philoptochos to realize its many charitable goals. The September Meeting of the Philoptochos will be held Monday, September 9 in the Hellenic Center at 6:30 pm. We'll begin the new term with a covered dish dinner. Please, plan to attend and do bring one of your favorite dishes to share with your fellow Philoptochos members Our Chapter's obligations to the National Philoptochos Charities for the month of September are:: A contribution to Hellenic College Holy Cross Scholarship Fund which provides tuition scholarships for deserving students; A contribution to Retired Clergy and Widowed Presvyteres Benevolent Fund (RCP) which provides financial support to retired clergy and widowed presvyteres. DAUGHTERS OF PENELOPE Welcome back everyone. Hope you all enjoyed your summer and are now ready to participate in the Sisterhood's activities with gusto and renewed energy. Our Craft Show is scheduled for September 27 & 28. Many sisters have worked hard during the summer months preparing for the Show. Please, make yourselves available to help wherever you are needed We congratulate and wish the best of luck for a great and productive term to our newly-elected officers: Helen Dennie, Pres., Tasia Savrides, Vice Pres., Becky Karatsikis, Rec. Seretary, Becky Karatsikis & Helen George, Corresponding Secrs., Sharon Otero, Treasurer. The DOP District #3 Convention was held June in Annapolis, MD, The newly-elected DOP District Officers are: Geri Hasapis, Governor, Jane Moore, Lt. Governor, Katherine Petrakos, Secretary, Beba Gravelis, Treas. Lotetta Kirk, Marshall, Irene Banpsolas, Advistor to the Maids of Athena, Kathy Matthews, Advisor Our sincere congratulations and the best of luck to the newly-elected District Officers. The September meeting of the DOP will be held Thursday, September 26, in the AHEPA Family Home, starting with dinner at 6:45 pm;. HELLENIC WOMAN S PENELOPE SOCIETY The Hellenic Woman s Penelope Society (HWPS) will hold its first meeting of the club year on Thursday, September 12 th at 6:30 pm at the Hellenic Center. Mrs. Tasia Savrides will serve as hostess. The program for this meeting will be a follow-up of the book, The Whispering Voices of Smyrna, by Dr. Nikki Karavasilis, which all those present at our June banquet found extremely moving. A DVD depicting Smyrna, one of the wealthiest cities and most advanced civilizations in the Middle East, was burned to the ground in September of 1922 by the troops of Kemal Ataturk, founder of modern Turkey. This catastrophe led to the loss of 3.5 million Greek and Armenian Orthodox Christians, who had occupied Asia Minor since the time of Alexander the Great. At the June banquet, the officers for were sworn in. Congratulations to Helen Vaughn, president; Alaina Walker, vice-president; Joanie Michalos, recording secretary; Sharon Otero, corresponding secretary; Maggie Thompson, treasurer; Tessie Dakis, assistant treasurer; Zena Mageras, immediate past president, and Marika Anthony, parliamentarian. On June 18 th, the members of our Book Group were the guests of the Book Group of the Annunciation Cathedral of Norfolk. After a delicious lunch, we exchanged ideas of books to be read and scheduled another joint lunch meeting in October, which will be hosted by HWPS, to discuss The Cyclops Conspiracy, by David Perry. David has graciously accepted our invitation to join us at this meeting. After several months of researching and contacting many furniture companies, we selected a beautiful and elegant banquet chair pattern from MTS Seating, a leading manufacturer of hospitality furniture. Over the summer, we placed the first order of 100 chairs, which will be arriving before the end of August. Our goal is to raise enough funds to eventually purchase 400 chairs. We are certain that these elegant chairs, along with the renovation of the Sacalis Hall, will increase the number of hall rentals, thus generating more income for our church and its ministries. In an effort to raise enough funds to purchase another 100 chairs by the end of 2013, we applied and have been selected to have a bake sale at the Bodacious Bazaar and Art Festival on November 8, 9, and 10 th at the Hampton Conference Center. The pavers which many parishioners have ordered are currently being engraved and will be placed in the fountain pavilion of the Biblical Garden before the end of August. Happy Ecclesiastical New Year to all. PORT HOMELESS SHELTER DATES The dates for the PORT homeless feedings are : Jan 15- Jan 22 Tabernacle Feb 26 - March 5 Orcutt Our church usually serves on the Sunday night of the weeks assigned, but this has not yet been determined as we must attend a PORT meeting to do this. If you are interested in answering God's call to serve your church in coordinating and chairing this great cause so we may continue this project, please contact either John Dermanis at jdermanis@aol.com or Zena Mageras at or zena.mageras@cnu.edu. ACT OF KINDNESS (AOK) TEAM Our AOK Team consisting of women from Philoptochos, women of our community, and some of their friends, have been serving chemotherapy patients at Virginia Oncology, Port Warwick, since the first Monday of June. By the end of August, our AOK Team would have served 13 times. It is such a gratifying experience, and we would love for you to join us. Call Ellie Costulis at for additional information. PLEASE PLAN TO ATTEND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 29, 2013 We will be recognizing the newest members of our Church family at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy on September 29. A reception will follow in the Hellenic Center so that everyone can greet our new parishioners. If you or someone you know is new to Sts. Constantine & Helen Church, please contact Dianne Sun at dsungreek@hotmail.com or so that you/they may be included.

6 The Cross+Roads Page 6 YOUTH MINISTRY NOTES Vacation Bible School photographs courtesy of Hazel Bruce. The Youth Registration Form is available for download on the Parish website at Please return the form to the Sunday School Office or the Church Office. Help Needed: The Cross+Roads needs assistance in providing content from a few people for Youth Ministry activities. It is very easy to snap a few photos with your phone and it to the editor along with a caption. If you regularly attend youth ministry activities of the church and are willing to help, please contact Nick Vlattas at or nvlattas@hewv.com I+I YOUTH MINISTRY I+I

7 The Cross+Roads Page 7 I+I VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL I+I Recent visitors to our church in July to celebrate the Divine Liturgy with Father George included the Very Rev. George Nikas who is the Pastor of the Saint Demetrios Church of Union, New Jersey, and Deacon Chrysostomos Gilbert.

8 The Cross+Roads Page 8 S UMMARY OF STEWARDSHIP PLEDGES AS OF AUGUST 19, Thank You s! The Parish Council and Stewardship Ministry Team thank the 167 parishioners and parishioner families listed below for submitting their annual Stewardship pledge for 2013 (as of August 19, 2013). In addition to the pledges received, we have also received contributions of treasure recorded towards stewardship totaling $17,259 from 68 parishioners, but, for whatever reason, no stewardship commitment form. We prayerfully request that all participants in the life of the Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church submit their sacrificial gift commitments at their earliest convenience. If you feel there is an error in the listing below, please contact the Church Office. Helen Aaron Demetrios & Melinda Alimonos George & Jacquelyn Anas Mary Anas Nick & Dottie Andre Tony & Marika Anthony Peter & Connie Antinopoulos Alike Asime Steve & Anthi Athas James Bailey Andrew & Tessie Baker Barney and Georgia Barnes Marina Becouvarakis Dean & Mary Ann BeLer Helen Bernhard Leroy & Joanne Bossetti James Botelis Renee Brown John & Phoebe Campbell Charles & Beth Campbell Sam & Angelike Canavos Dean & Stacie Canavos Chris & Tena Canavos Pete & Margaret Carter Michael & Melissa Chalkias Fr. George & Presv. Flora Chioros Aphrodite Christopoulos John Christou Irene Christou Ellie Costulis Peter & Beverly Daikos John & Tessie Dakis Robert Dimitri & Patricia Demson Joe & Helen Dennie John Dermanis Kathy Dermanis Fr. Nicholas and Presv. Moscha Despotides Mihaela Dobrescu Elias & Zoe Doulgerakis Terry & Deborah Drivas Sonja Eaton Faye Evans Darrell and Deema Fann Konstantinos & Marina Fotiadis Harry & Zoe Fotiou Ted & Jo Ellen Fotiou Teddy Fotiou Joseph Gregory Fotiou Kevin & Mariya Furtah Abel & Christina Garcia Haralambos & Aleksandra Garofalis Alvin & Alexa Garrison Anastasius & Mary Georgalas Helen George Bill & Christine Georges Tom & Ourania Georges Angela Vallas Gionis Theo & Maria Gouletas Mary Graham Tom & Libby Grepiotis Maxine Grepiotis Anatol Grynewytsch Jesse & Evangelia Hanline Katherine Haramis Roger & Dina Headrick Barry & Ruth Hendricks Jason and Lea Holbrook George and Athena Ikonomou Socratis and Ifigenia Ikonomou Penelope Irwin Christopher and Elaine Jansen Lisa Jones William and Maria Kaoudis Daniel Kocic Mike and Paula Kokolis Michael Kokorelis Diane Kokorelis Maria Komianos Jay & Anastasia Krisik Angela Kritikos Polydefkis and Georgia Kypriandes Bret & Denise Landsdell Bobby & Jennifer Lappas Robert and Zoe Ann Lumpkin Zena Mageras Anna Mageras Howard Mandeville Dimitrios and Maria Mantis Helen Mantis Sylvia Marcin Zoe Marcopoulos Pete and Athena Markos George Markos Jimmy and Martha Matheos Nikolaos Matheos Nick and Kathy Matthews Sylvia Matthews James and Argie Maurakis Loula Maurakis William & Joanna McDearmon Dennis and Patsy Meliagros John & Mary Michos Richard & Jette Mikita Matina Mimikos RaNetta Mitchum Maria Mitchum Mitchell & Alexandra Moore Gary and Helen Nicholls Viola Nicholls Konstantinos Orginos Jeanette Orlino Sharon Otero John & Marianthe Palantzas Tatjana Karajovic Palmer Voula Panags Tike Panags Gus and Kay Panos Thomas Pantelides Elizabeth Papas Arthur Parrous Kent & Georgene Paumier John Pawluk Frank & Stephanie Peri Cleo Pileggi Mary Pitsilides Thanos & Melissa Polizos Thanos & Melissa Polizos Maria Poulimenos Thomas & Joanne Poulos Elizabeth Puckett Petra Radulovic Bill Ringas Scott and Renee' Root John and Agnes Samos Harry and Zelma Samos Anastasia Savrides Athena Savvas Pauline Schlim Barbara Short Helen Siokis Ioannis Siokis Kurt & Vicky Ann Smith Douglas Smith Charita Stavrou Mircea and Alexandra Stirbet Pete and Dianne Sun Christina Thames Angelo and Nia Theodorogiannis Nicholas and Margaret Theodosakis Chris Theoharis Athena Theoharis John and Joanne Thomas Mark and Ellen Thompson Chris and Paula Tofalli Sotos and Panayiota Tofalli George and Julie Tsirimokos Stavroula Valentin Joanna Vallas Greg and Christine Vassilakos Bobby and Maria Vidakis Nicholas and Barbara Vlattas Nick and Voula Vretakis John and Betty Warhol Jr. James and Victoria Woodbury Katherine Yeapanis Chris & Hope Zambas Vassilios and Katie Zisopoulos 68 Thank Yous to the parishioners who have made a contribution of treasure counted towards Stewardship in 2013, but have not completed a Stewardship Commitment Form. If you feel there is an error, please check with the Church Office. Alberto & Natalya Accardi Michael & Constance Anastasiou Greg Bicouvaris John Bishop Olen and Hazel Bruce Andrew & Maria Call Lyle & Demetria Charbonneau Chris & Anna Christopher Chris & Roxanne Christou Tom & Olga Coghill Susan Constantinides John & Phyllis Costulis Kaliope Deligan Kurt & Paula Detweiler Stefania Dimofte Maria Galanos George & Colette Garofalis Venisse Georgalas Chris George Guy & Holly Gilman David & Eugenia Gray Joan Hill Charles Husson Jimmy and Flossie Kaligos Helen Kanelos Johnny & Rebecca Karatsikis Angelike Karatsikis Sam K. Khoshaba Brian and Cynthia Killough John and Helena Koenig Pete & Christina Kokolis James and Niki Kokolis Marinos and Athena Kokolis Lycourgos and Pam Koliopoulos John and Sheree Konstantinou James Koumbaries Kiki Lappas Angelo & Niki Mageras Julia Malliarakis John & Debbie Malliarakis Angelo and Victoria Markov Zoran Martinovic Al & Christine Mignogna Paul Pantelis Pete & Rhonda Pappas Brian & Jennifer Patrinely Katherine Patrinely Dimitri & Voula Petrakos Evangelos & Maria Petrou Randy & Karen Pingley Olympia Plethos Mel & Frances Polizos Samir & Katerina Sanbar Marinos and Kristen Sarantakos Paul and Lamonia Schadow Phil and Chrysoula Siokis Stephan Stephan Nikiforos and Fanoula Stoltidou Nick Stratas Paul and Maria Summa Preston and Maria Summers Mike & Frances Tsimplekis Timothy and Helen Vaughn Apostoles and Louisa Velissarios Nicholas A Vrettos John and Laura Warhol III Gus and Katina Zaharopoulos Nicholas & Angel Zervos George and Eva Zestos

9 The Cross+Roads Page 9 S TEWARDSHIP MINISTRY (Continued from page 1) few indicators we have as to a person s relationship with Christ. Not the sole determining factor, but it is an indicator. I remain convinced that many in our community continue to view Stewardship as a burdensome financial exercise, and not as a cheerful and uplifting spiritual commitment of faith, and that much of that belief stems from a common misunderstanding of Stewardship. First and foremost, Christian Stewardship is about FAITH and THANKSGIVING, not funding. It based on the simple affirmation that ALL WE HAVE and ALL WE ARE comes as a blessing from God. If one does not recognize and accept that belief, then it makes it difficult to move on to the next component of Stewardship. Next, as a sign of LOVE and THANKSGIVING to God for all His blessings, we offer a portion of our time, talent, and Pledged Amount Range treasure to support Christ s Church and Her Ministries. Once you understand and believe in the true meaning of Stewardship, it makes it easier to recognize the importance and rationale behind your obligation to make your offerings to the Church and complete your annual Stewardship Commitment Form. Every year, we ask our faithful to prayerfully review their personal circumstances and cheerfully make a commitment of time, talent, and treasure on a Stewardship Commitment Form. Filling out your commitment form is a spiritual experience, not a burden. It is something you should look forward to want to fill out, and not be asked or reminded. It is the one place where you can express your thanksgiving to God and how you want to offer those blessings back to the Church. No one knows your own personal / family situation better than yourself how richly you have been blessed in the Number of Pledges Total Pledged Amount past year, how much time you have to commit to the church and your God-given or special talents you have to offer in Christ s service. Please take a look at the listing of parishioners who have submitted their commitment forms, if you notice your name or family missing, please take the time to fill out and submit your. If you need a form, you can get it from the Church Office, in the Narthex, or under the Stewardship tab on the church s website (both a downloadable form you can print out yourself or an online form that can be filled out and submitted online). If you notice one of your fellow parishioners missing from the list, encourage them to submit their form. Average Pledge Percentage $6,000 and above 1 $6,000 $6, % $5,000 $5,999 5 $25,600 $5, % $2,000 $4, $33,200 $2, % $1,000 $1, $49,665 $1, % $600 $ $7,185 $ % $500 $ $8,620 $ % $400 $499 9 $3,656 $ % $300 $ $4,152 $ % $200 $ $7,803 $ % $155 & below 23 $2,045 $ % TOTALS 167 $147,926 $ % Median $500 Mode $260 T HROUGH THE BIBLE A Z Sheep of His Hand Psalm 95:7 Sheep of His pasture - Psalm 79:13 Sheep which are slaughtered Romans 8:36 Shepherd Jeremiah 23:4 Shepherd the flock of God according to His Will not for sordid gain or by lording it over them 1 Peter 5:2,3 Shine brightly like the brightness of the heavens who are given insight - Daniel 12:3 Shoulder to shoulder to serve the Lord together Zephaniah 3:9 Shout for joy if you are upright in heart Psalm 32:11 Show all consideration for all men Titus 3:2 Show gratitude by which you offer to God an acceptable service for you will receive a kingdom that cannot be shaken Heb. 12:28 Show mercy with cheerfulness Romans 12:8 Signet ring - Haggai 2:23 Signs shall follow them that believe Mark 16:17 Simple made wise - Psalm 19:7

10 The Cross+Roads Page 10 P ARISH COUNCIL MINUTES JUNE 17, 2013 The meeting convened at 7:01 PM by John Dermanis with the opening prayer by Father George. The following items were discussed and action items are shown in bold script. Present: Father George Chioros, John Dermanis, Kent Paumier, Michael Chalkias, Bobby Vidakis, Elias Doulgerakis, Frank Peri, Jason Holbrook, Butch Kypriandes, Zena Mageras & Rodger Headrick Absent: Bobby Garofalis Guest/Vistors: Marika Anthony Minutes: Mageras motion to approve 21 May 13 meeting minutes; Seconded by Kypriandes; Passed unanimously Correspondence: Letter of Thanks with a donation for $ from the Russian School Club, Hampton Roads VA., N. Peretyatko Director, dated 30 May 13, for the use of our classrooms for their school. Treasurer s Report: By Mike Chalkias We are slightly ahead of budget and the Fairshare has been paid to date. Visitor s Comments: By Markia Anthony New Chairs - Showed a more elaborate chair than recently presented. HWPS will be placing an order for 100 chairs and order another 100 chairs in November. Fundraising will be in place to raise additional funds for a total 400 chairs. The Personnel Committee has not met in two years and she has concerns with the Hall employees and the lack of employee guidelines. Frank Peri The committee is being formed and will address employee issues. Suggestions & Capital Campaign Fundraising - The Hellenic Center roof needs to be repaired/replaced with a sloping style roof. Fundraising Form a Capital Campaign Committee and involve all of the clubs/organizations of the community. Each club doing one or two fundraising events to support the campaign. The (Continued on page 11) T REASURER S REPORT BY MICHAEL CHALKIAS JULY 31, 2013 Income Statement Compara ve Analysis Year to Date Year to Date Year to Date $ Variance % Variance $ Variance % Variance Actual Last Year Budget to Last Year to Last to Budget to Parishioner Revenue $138,765 $ 154,374 $ 154,250 $ (15,609) $ (15,485) Fundraising Revenue 184, , ,000 15,974 4,869 Hellenic Center Revenue 10,400 21,151 11,000 (10,751) (600) Other Revenue 5,108 1,735 2,450 3,373 2,658 Total Revenue 339, , ,700 (7,013) 2% (8,558) 2% Employee Expenses $159,216 $ 149,664 $ 152,145 $ 9,552 $ 7,071 GOA Fair Share 42,000 31,200 42,000 10,800 Church Life 7,369 9,580 16,930 (2,211) (9,561) Grounds & Maintenance 17,313 18,279 20,825 (966) (3,512) Financial, Legal & Insurance 19,952 17,957 13,650 1,995 6,302 Supplies 15,470 19,060 15,544 (3,590) (74) U li es 41,076 35,615 38,000 5,461 3,076 Total Expense 302, , ,094 $ 21,041 7% $ 3,302 1% Opera ng Income 36,746 64,800 48,606 (28,054) 43% (11,860) 24% Cash Posi on Current Month Actual Same Month Last Year Current Month Budget Cash Opera ng $ 20,792 $ 41,939 $ 104,288 Cash Fes val 121, ,167 39,024 Investments 82,754 94,463 99,708

11 The Cross+Roads Page 11 (Continued from page 10) committee needs to approach and involve the community. Leave the Youth Director and Choir Director Positions open for one year and involve the community to fill these positions during this time. Committee Reports Youth: By Christina Thames attached with minutes House / Education: 21 Sept 13 Beyond- Boobs Cancer Survivor s Charity rental House rules to be sent out by Dermanis Maintenance / Building / Security / Audio: Headrick/ Doulgerakis Commercial Roofing to perform warranty repairs on church roof. Roof Drainage - Look at roof drainage from church to keep rain water from pooling up against the foundation by regrading the soil or possibly water-proofing the foundation. Action Headrick Priest s Report: By Father George Thanked everyone for their help with the festival. It was great to see our people working the event to make it a success. Roof leak in the altar boys room damaged amplifier 30 Jun Christina Thames luncheon after the Liturgy 26 Jun - Festival out brief at 6:30 PM in the AHEPA Hall. Congratulations to Mike & Mellissa Chalkis on the birth of their daughter and Elias on his new grand daughter No Parish Council meeting in July Unfinished Business: Hall Renovations - Roger Headrick discussed the following: Dermanis is meeting this week with the event planner for the cancer charity and will ask about what people are looking for when renting facilities so the renovation can focus on those requirements. Form committee Develop scope of work to be accomplished, obtain estimates & establish budget Set-up a separate Capital Renovation Campaign and begin fundraising Present plan at Fall Parish Assembly October 2013 Kick-off meeting 15 Jul 13 at 7:00 PM Adjournment: Father closed with a prayer at 8:15 PM. No meeting in July. Next meeting is Monday, 19 Aug 13, location to be determined later. Unscheduled Parish Council Event - 26 Jun 13 On Wednesday, 26 Jun 13, Alvin Garrison, who is helping the church office with accounting/bookkeeping, approached John Dermanis & Mike Chalkias about outsourcing the payroll responsibilities to Virginia Company Bank. The Virginia Company Bank payroll service will be setup for all employees to direct deposit their pay on a bi-weekly basis, file all quarterly and annual federal and state of Virginia payroll tax forms, including W-2 forms for all employees. The estimated cost is $50-$75 per month for this service. The Parish Council Board gave Garrison approval to open an account at Virginia Company Bank for use with the payroll package offered by Virginia Company Bank to begin with the July 2013 payroll. Respectfully Submitted, Kent Paumier Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat September Sunday Beginning of the Ecclesiastical Year Orthros 8:15am Divine Liturgy 9:30am 2 Monday LABOR Day office closed 4 Wednesday Choir 7:00pm 5 Thursday HWPS Meeting 6:30pm 8 Sunday Nativity of the Theotokos Sunday before Holy Cross Orthros 8:45am Divine Liturgy 10.00am Goya Oath of office Sunday School Staff meeting 9 Monday Golden Hearts 10:30am Philoptochos Meeting 6:30pm 11 Wednesday Choir 7:30pm 14 Saturday Exaltation of the Holy Cross Orthros 9:00am Divine Liturgy 10:00am 15 Sunday Sunday after Holy Cross Orthros 8:45am Divine Liturgy 10:00am First day of Sunday School AHEPA Picnic after church 16 Monday Parish Council Meeting 7:00pm 18 Wednesday Choir 7:30pm 21 Saturday Hall Rental 22 Sunday 1 st Sunday of Luke Orthros 8:45am Divine Liturgy 10:00am 23 Monday Golden Hearts 10:30am 25 Wednesday Choir 7:30pm 26 Thursday Falling Asleep of St. John the Theologian Orthros 9:00am Divine Liturgy Ahepa/DOP Meeting 6:45 29 Sunday 2 nd Sunday of Luke Orthros 8:45am Divine Liturgy 10:00am

12 Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church 60 Traverse Road Newport News VA Return Address Requested Non-Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit No. 50 Newport News Virginia C OME WORSHIP THE GLORY OF GOD Sunday Services 9:00 a.m. Matins 10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy 11:15 a.m. Religious Education (Sep-May) 11:30 a.m. Christian Fellowship (Hellenic Center) Phone (757) Fax (757) Mission Statement The mission of Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Newport News, Virginia is to keep, practice, and proclaim the Orthodox Christian Faith. The work and ministry of our Parish will include proclaiming the Gospel, sanctifying the faithful through God's grace in worship, the Divine Liturgy and the Sacraments, and enhancing their spiritual life. We will fulfill the great commission of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ by inviting others into the Church through Baptism and/or Chrismation, educating them in the Orthodox Faith through the establishment of programs, schools and philanthropic activities, and implementing Christian ministries.